Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a cookie that embodies the essence of cozy afternoons and sweet nostalgia, then look no further than these delightful Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies. With their soft, chewy texture and just the right amount of spice, these cookies are a comforting treat that perfectly balances the warmth of cinnamon with the rich creaminess of cream cheese. Perfect for sharing, or indulging in all by yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
The Upside of Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a cookie that not only tastes good but also feels good to make. These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. The addition of cream cheese gives them a unique twist, resulting in a cookie that is moist and tender, with a delightful creaminess that sets them apart from traditional cookies. Plus, the heavenly aroma of cinnamon baking in your kitchen is enough to make anyone feel right at home.
What We’re Using
To create these scrumptious cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature for easy blending.
- 4 ounces cream cheese – Also softened to room temperature, this is key for that creamy texture.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a light texture.
- 1 egg – Acts as a binding agent for the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Gives the cookies a slight lift.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Pinch kosher salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our cookie dough.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – For rolling the cookie dough balls and adding a slight crunch.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – The star ingredient that gives these cookies their signature flavor.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before diving into the mixing bowl, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
- Electric mixer – This will make creaming the butter and cream cheese a breeze.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking!
- Baking sheet – To hold your cookies while they bake.
- Parchment paper – Optional, but it helps with easy cleanup.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – For portioning your cookie dough evenly.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Made Stepwise
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Ensure there are no lumps for the best texture in your cookies.
Step 2: Add the Sugars
Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, continuing to beat until fully incorporated. Then, mix in the granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light.
Step 3: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to your mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and the texture is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. This will ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Chill the Dough (Optional)
For best results, cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to work with.
Step 7: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 8: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Then, roll each ball in the remaining granulated sugar mixed with a little extra cinnamon for added flavor.
Step 9: Bake
Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; that’s perfect because they will continue to set as they cool.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies with a cup of coffee or tea!
Seasonal Flavor Boosts
Want to add a twist to your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies? Try these seasonal flavor boosts:
- Pumpkin Spice – Add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for an autumn vibe.
- Chocolate Chips – Fold in a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
- Nutmeg – Swap out some cinnamon for nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Walnuts or Pecans – Add chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Avoid These Traps
Even the best bakers can fall into common pitfalls. Here are some traps to avoid while making your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies:
- Overmixing the Dough – This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly – Baking is a science; precision matters!
- Skipping the Chilling Step – Chilling the dough helps improve the texture.
- Baking at the Wrong Temperature – Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these tips:
- Storing – Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing – Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
- Reheating – If they lose their softness, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive that fresh-baked goodness.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use light cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, light cream cheese can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best results for a rich and creamy cookie.
What if I don’t have unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of kosher salt in the recipe to maintain balance.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be lightly golden, while the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
Bring It Home
Now that you have the recipe for these delightful Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion, a cozy gathering, or simply to enjoy at home, these cookies are sure to impress. They embody the warmth of home-baked goodness, and every bite will transport you to a happy place filled with sweet memories. So preheat that oven, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of baking begin!
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the softened butter and cream cheese together in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated, then mix in the granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed until just combined.
- For best results, cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough into balls and roll in the remaining granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon.
- Place cookie balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months and bake directly from frozen.
- If cookies lose softness, microwave for a few seconds to revive them.
